The Gina Tognoni Interview – The Young and the Restless

It was one of the most sought after roles in the history of daytime for any actress to play. After quite the search to find the successor to two-time Daytime Emmy winning dynamo, Michelle Stafford, The Young and the Restless has found their gal in Gina Tognoni to step into the shoes of Phyllis Summers! Soap fans know of Gina’s stellar work from her first daytime role as Kelly Cramer on One Life to Live, to her two-time Daytime Emmy winning star turn as Dinah Marler on Guiding Light. Now the journey begins for the Y&R audience to see just how the talented Tognoni will put her own stamp and spin on firecracker Phyllis!

And as it written in the soap opera handbook 101 … when one actress is put in a coma to facilitate her exit, but then goes to another soap, only to wake up from a coma as a different character … the original soap has the character wake up from a coma as another actress! Got it? But with that, both Michelle Stafford now Nina Clay on GH, and Gina Tognoni now Phyllis on Y&R, both have roles befitting their acting chops!

On-Air On-Soaps had the pleasure of sitting down with Gina at the set of Y&R for one of her first interviews back to the soap fold where we gleaned: just how she landed the primo role in Genoa City, how she views the character of Phyllis, and what she thinks of her new leading men, Joshua Morrow (Nick) and Peter Bergman (Jack). And Gina gives us some subtle, yet definite clues as to what to look for when Phyllis finally awakens for her comatose state. And let’s be real here … hell hath no fury like a Phyllis scorned!

In addition, Gina addresses the sad fate of her former soap homes, Guiding Light and One Life to Live, plus getting into the groove at the number one soap playing the kickass Phyllis, who fans are just waiting to spring back to life and into action! The story picks up stream on the Monday, August 11th episode of Y&R when Gina makes her on-screen debut. And now, here’s our enlightening and entertaining chat with the new Phyllis in town!

MICHAEL:

Was there ever a time you thought: “I would like to be on the number one show, Y&R?”

GINA:

Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins

Yes, yes, and yes! A few weeks ago I stayed in Melody Thomas Scott’s (Nikki) dressing room, which I have to say is epic! It is incredible. My whole life I have admired this show. It is number one for a reason. It is not only beautiful to look at, but there is just a certain type of class with this show, and I say that in the best possible way. It was no more evident when I got the job from the phone calls I got from everybody, but especially the phone call I got from Peter Bergman (Jack). And, can I just say, he was my first call! Peter is truly the ambassador of The Young and the Restless. He is truly authentic, and what a gift to be working with him.

MICHAEL:

Did Peter Bergman say to you, “Gina, you don’t know what you have gotten yourself into?” (Laughs) And then did he say, “You have big shoes to fill!”

GINA:

(Laughs) Actually, it was a kind message congratulating me and saying how happy he was. I kept that message on my phone for a really long time, because it meant a lot to me. It’s people like Jimmy Freeman, our associate producer and former show publicist, who call and open their heart and tell you a little bit about the show. And from there it was the hair and make-up team, directors, wardrobe; it has been awesome and rare.

MICHAEL:

I heard you blew everyone away with your audition tape and screen test! So what were the scenes that you performed? Everyone kind of wants to know how this all came about that the show ended up choosing you, since this role is so identifiable to Michelle Stafford (Nina GH) who was your predecessor in the part.

GINA:

Photo Credit: DuffImages.com

So, I have loved Michelle Stafford’s work. I think she is fabulous, and that is why this role is so amazing, because she is fearless. I identify with that. With that being said, I was in New York. I put myself on tape and I sent it to the Y&R casting director, Judy Blye Wilson. There was a casting call for the role that was open to all. It was interesting. I didn’t know if I was going to go back to daytime, or what I was going to do, or what was going to be in my path. I thought, “You know what? We are going to try and see if this is the right match.” So the show called me back and said they wanted me to come out to L.A to screen test. And when I came out here, I was so open to the fact that maybe this isn’t the right thing, but if it is, it will be. Then when I arrived here and got to the studio, and being here the day of the screen test, it just felt like Kismet. It felt right. So I performed two scenes: one with Peter Bergman and one with Joshua Morrow (Nick). And initially the scene I sent in from New York was between Phyllis and Sharon. I love that relationship. It’s a real fierce relationship. I felt that I understood that. I was then happy to see they were going to focus on the two guys here. I think that was important to see what the chemistry is like. Peter and Joshua are two different entities, and what is wonderful is that Phyllis has two important men in her life.

MICHAEL:

What was your first impression of Mr. Morrow?

GINA:

Joshua is gorgeous inside and out. He is a bright light, and he has been here a long time, and he is still so humble. That struck me, along with Joshua’s ability.

MICHAEL:

Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins

Joshua told me in a recent interview that he wants the fans to give you a shot and a chance to win them over as Phyllis! What were the audition scenes with Joshua like?

GINA:

It actually was an aggressive scene between Phyllis and Nick that was a fight layered with a lot of passion. Whereas the Peter scene was about Jack’s trust and how the hallmark of their relationship was that they always had trust. And with Nick, there is a fire. Now, Joshua is a beautiful man! (Laughs) And I am a married woman in real life! (Laughs) I am looking at him, again thinking that he is just so humble, and yet he is so funny! I love being around anybody who can make me laugh.

MICHAEL:

So are you aware of the “Phick” fans and the “Shick” fans, and that never the two will meet? (Laughs)

GINA:

I learned about it. I am like scared of these people! (Laughs) Let me tell you, I am going to wear horse blinders, because I am NOT going to read what people are saying. I will purposely not read what people are writing for awhile. I have to focus on the work.

MICHAEL:

What happened when you found out you had nabbed the role of Phyllis? How did you find out? Who told you?

GINA:

Courtesy/IMDB

Let me just put like this: It was completely on facebook and quickly on the Internet. And that happened well before any of my family members knew, and it just shows you the speed of social media. It got out there fast when it was announced. I truly, when I left this building for the screen test, knew I was proud of my work. I had stepped out of my comfort zone. I pushed it, in my opinion, but I knew that’s what this particular role needs. As Phyllis, you have to really just go for it! And, we don’t know the way the fans are going to go with this. I am like: “Well, I hope they like me.” I remember after the audition seeing Y&R executive producer Jill Farren Phelps’ face. She looked happy, but there was still another girl to read for the role. Everyone gets a fair shot, but the cards went my way. Now the way I found out was through a text message from a friend who said, “Oh, my God. I just found out you got the role!” When I found out I got the part I couldn’t believe it, and I was so thrilled. Then, I had a moment of: “Oh, my gosh! How am I going to do this?” I was concerned how I was going to work out the flying back and forth from the east coast, and the logistics of it all. As everyone knows, soaps are at an insane speed. Every day there is new stuff for everyone to learn. I was used to that stuff, but the travel I had not done. But what is unbelievable is that it is all working out quite well. Typically, I will fly in a day before I tape an episode, or if it’s for four episodes, even better.

MICHAEL:

But you had to have a “pinch yourself moment” when it sank in that you were going to be the actress to play Phyllis.

GINA:

I was speechless. I think I thought, “Wow! Wow! Wow!” Because in my mind, Y&R is the number one show on the planet! This is the number one role on the planet, so this is it! In Jill Phelps’ words: “This is as good as it gets!” And it’s true. I am a very lucky girl, but I am blessed.

MICHAEL:

Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto

You had worked with Y&R’s executive producer Jill Farren Phelps previously, correct?

GINA:

Yes. I worked with Jill a million years ago when I was at One Life to Live. She said to me, “You grew up pretty good.” And that just meant so much. Jill is wonderful to work for. It had been so long since we had worked together, but to get this role was still a fair fight.

MICHAEL:

Michelle Stafford sent you a tweet congratulating you on becoming the next Phyllis. What did you think of her doing that?

GINA:

I think it was classy. Look, I loved what she did with the role, and I think I identified with it. Dinah and Phyllis could have been from the same family, in fact, they might be cousins! (Laughs) I pray that the audience gives me a chance, but what I am going to do with all of my heart is express the spirit of Phyllis.

MICHAEL:

And what is the spirit of Phyllis to you?

GINA:

She loves with all of her heart fearlessly, and she is not afraid of what that looks like, and that is interesting to play.

MICHAEL:

Are you nervous that no matter what you do, you will not be accepted by the Y&R viewing audience?

GINA:

Courtesy/CBS

I think it’s human nature to fulfill people’s expectations, but if you go too far in that direction in your mind, you are toast. I am excited, but if turns too much to nerves, I watch that and keep an eye on that. I will say; you need all the strength you can get for this role! (Laughs)

MICHAEL:

What happened when you met Y&R legend Eric Braeden (Victor) for the first time?

GINA:

I met him the other day, and he is like an icon! And in that voice of his, he went, “It was so nice to meet you!” (Gina screams) I said back to him, “You are so cool!”

MICHAEL:

And what are your thoughts on your on-screen nemesis Sharon Case (Sharon)?

GINA:

I love Sharon Case. First of all, Sharon is the most beautiful girl ever. I have not worked with her yet, but she gave me a hug, and I gave her a hug.

MICHAEL:

Courtesy/CBS

Who have you worked with thus far from the cast?

GINA:

Peter Bergman, Hunter King (Summer) who plays my daughter. That girl is wicked talented. I love her energy, and I was drawn to her right away. Matt Atkinson, who has been great as Austin, the character of Dr. Cutler, and I have worked with Eric Braeden. Victor came to visit Phyllis.

MICHAEL:

So here you are, two-time Daytime Emmy winner Gina Tognoni, and it’s your first day on set at Y&R, and your first scenes, and you have to pretend that you are in a coma! (Laughs)

GINA:

My first scenes were me lying in a coma. I kept thinking, “I hope my hair color is correct and I hope my eyes are not twitching,” and they were! I got a note that I was twitching a little. (Laughs) Must have been too much coffee! (Laughs) But it was fine, and it is actually the best way to get to know somebody – to be able to be there and not talk, but to listen. So that was all O.K.

MICHAEL:

So you obviously know the story, and there are major issues and bombshells surrounding Phyllis waking from her coma. First on the list is revealing Sharon switched the paternity test, and Summer is Nick’s bio-daughter. Please tell me, Phyllis is not going to wake up with amnesia?

GINA:

Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto

Well, you don’t know. You don’t know what place Phyllis has gone to, and what she has seen while she was gone, and we don’t know what she has seen.

MICHAEL:

Well, knowing Phyllis she has probably got a few tricks up her sleeve!

GINA:

Yes. I will tell you when you talk to anybody who has been in a coma, when they come back … they know they have come back. They could have either passed on, or come back, and Phyllis is back and there is a reason she is coming back, and that intrigues me. I think that is fabulous. There are quite of bit of undercurrents going on here!

MICHAEL:

I think there is a huge revenge element in there, too! After all, everyone else has moved on with their life, while she was stuck in this coma!

GINA:

Which is interesting, because now she has to get integrated back into her life. So physically, where is she? There are all of types of wonderful questions that come up for an actress: is she 100% strong? So we are going to see a journey, and the audience is going to have to watch very closely, because it’s going to be subtle. It has to be built brick by brick.

MICHAEL:

Which is so interesting, because Michelle Stafford’s new character on GH was in a coma for 20years! You two are the comatose twins!

GINA:

Courtesy/ABC

I love that, and I know! It’s going to be like Frick and Frack, right? It’s going to be … who was the best coma patient? It’s very weird that we both have those storylines, but that’s also what is kind of cool about it.

MICHAEL:

So, as you know, fans were very worried about who was going to take over this role. They had seen so many of their favorites depart The Young and the Restless for one reason or the other over the last year and half, that they wanted to make sure that someone truly capable of performing this role got the job, in their opinion. What has been the pulse you are getting from fans in their reaction to the news that you the new Phyllis? On my site, it was extremely positive … which is a rarity these days! (Laughs)

GINA:

Honestly, the manifest I got was: “Oh, we are so happy.” I know they were happy I was coming to the show. Now, there will be no negativity! (Laughs) I don’t want to hear it! (Laughs) I am a very spiritual girl, so I would not have flown all the way here! So we are going to embrace that. When you take on a character, you take on a character, and then you open the door and trust, and have that responsibility.

MICHAEL:

OK, let’s get down to it. Who do you want to have love scenes with?

GINA:

Courtesy/CBS

(Laughs) I think I am in great hands with Peter Bergman, or Joshua Morrow! And then Cady McClain (Kelly) and everyone else is going to hate me for it! (Laughs)

MICHAEL:

Do you know where the character of Phyllis is heading, let’s say, six months out from now?

GINA:

I do not know six months out. I have never in my career on daytime known story six months out. Let’s just say that I know there is quite a bit of conflict coming up with Sharon, and a lot of concern over Summer, and then Phyllis fighting her way back and being integrated again. I know there will be specific things to accomplish for her!

MICHAEL:

Do you want Phyllis to have a knock down drag out catfight with Sharon? I think many fans really want to see it!

GINA:

I think she needs to step in the ring with Sharon, but I think there needs to be a discussion! (Laughs) And I think the fans will get plenty of that!

MICHAEL:

You know the entire back-story of the tumble down the stairs that Phyllis took in a confrontation with Sharon?

GINA:

Courtesy/CBS

Yes. I knew Phyllis took a tumble. There is a debate whether she was thrown down the stairs, or if she fell down the stairs, or if Sharon pushed Phyllis down the stairs. Of course, Phyllis will probably see it as Sharon pushed her down the stairs! And, as I said, when people come back to life from this kind of situation they come back with a sense of purpose, and fans will see that. That will be very clear. She is back to establish relationships, make some relationships good, to get some clarity on things with Avery (Jessica Collins) and Kelly! The thing is Jack seems quite happy right now with Kelly, and that relationship is going quite well, and the fans certainly like it. However, Jack and Phyllis had a connection He is in many ways Phyllis’ soul mate. She has two soul mates, the other being Nick.

MICHAEL:

Nick is really Summer’s father. What do you think will happen when Phyllis realizes this? I think this will draw her back to Nick!

GINA:

Ideally, yes, in a perfect world. I think Phyllis has a soft spot for sex with Nick! (Laughs) But also having that soft spot for everything with him … she wants it all.

MICHAEL:

Photo Credit: Sue Coflin/Max Photos

Fans have loved you from Guiding Light, and they have loved you from One Life to Live. Both shows have now gone, for all intent and purpose, to soap heaven. Can you share a few thoughts on your experience on Guiding Light? You had left GL early before the show wrapped.

GINA:

What happened there was my contract was up, and it was time to go. It was something when I look back at it that almost felt like I left the funeral early. I wished I had stayed through to the end. I loved my experience on Guiding Light. It was amazing, and I loved playing Dinah.

MICHAEL:

Do you think the role of GL’s Dinah prepared you to be able to take on a role like Y&R’s Phyllis?

GINA:

Oh, yeah! I am sure I will use a lot of strength and fire that we saw in Dina, and yet, Phyllis has a very different core.

MICHAEL:

On One Life to Live you came back to the role you originated of Kelly Cramer, and continued on shortly before the show went off the air. Can you touch upon your feelings for the show that gave you your first soap break being canceled?

Courtesy/ABC

GINA:

My heart broke for that show. It felt very unfair that it was canceled. OLTL fans were so supportive and vocal about the show being canceled; you would think in these days that it would be enough to keep it on the air. I think for the TV version, Frank Valentini (former EP OLTL, now EP GH) and Ron Carlivati (former head writer OLTL, now head writer GH) did a good job of wrapping it up. It broke so many people’s hearts to take something off the air that meant a lot to so many. I feel grateful to be on The Young and the Restless as there is an appreciation here for what we do.

MICHAEL:

What did you think about your final turn playing Kelly on One Life?

GINA:

I feel like Kelly’s storyline was stuck somewhere between first gear and neutral, but here at Y&R I feel thrilled to be working with all five gears with the Phyllis storyline. Case closed! (Laughs)

MICHAEL:

And now in another twist of irony, Michael Easton, your former love interest on OLTL, is now involved with former Genoa City Phyllis, Michelle Stafford, on General Hospital!

GINA:

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Damn him! Damn her! (Laughs)

MICHAEL:

In closing Gina, what would you like to say to the fans … those that are in your corner, and those who may be your toughest critics, as you begin a new chapter in your soap life as Phyllis?

GINA:

I have so many people rooting for me that I do not take it for granted. I love that, and I cherish that. I promise, to the people that I have not won over yet, that I will work very hard to do that. I will put my heart and soul into this, because I want to, and I have to, and I will do this character justice. And you be nice!!!! (Laughs) I plan to go for it with this role. It’s going to be balls to the wall!

I LOVE GINA SHE IS MY FAVIRETE ACTRESS EVER SHE’S GOING TO DO GREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT

Reply

March 23, 2015 12:52 pm

steve

I hope Gina stays on the y and r for a long time.She is foxey

Reply

July 2, 2015 1:13 pm

Jeffrey Sweeney

AWESOME INTERVIEW!!!! I am so excited that Gina is taking over the role of Phyllis Newman; I was a HUGE fan of her work as Dinah on GL.

Reply

August 7, 2014 8:48 am

Sharon

Me too… I loved her on GL…. I was really upset when they said Phyllis was leaving the show…. but when I saw her on the other soap one day… Made me really mad she would leave the top Soap on tv to go there…. I am so excited for Nina to play this part now….

Reply

August 8, 2014 1:40 pm

Michael

I am so looking forward to Gina’s take on Phyllis starting next Monday! It’s going to be fun to watch!

Reply

August 7, 2014 8:52 am

Susan

If this story plays out in real life (not reel life) I doubt Phyllis will remember anything before falling. After a severe head injury like that most cannot immediately remember what caused the accident, if they ever remember. I have never seen Gina in anything but will give her a go. I still can’t stand nu-nu-Billy. He has no chemistry with anyone. The other one who needs to go is Stalker Stitch. What a creep.

Reply

August 7, 2014 9:12 am

Eileen Hargis

Stitch isnt a stalker, he is the good guy u will soon see. Burgess has great chemistry with Melissa who plays Chelsea. Gina is a terrific actress. Watch and learn.

Reply

August 7, 2014 1:54 pm

Enola Barrett

I totally agree,can’t stand Stitch either.And we all know that in the soap world,they don’t always do what is reality. Phyliss could wake up and remember everything all at once.

Reply

August 7, 2014 5:34 pm

MBmomof3

Susan, I just call nu-nu-Billy, Old Bill now. Much more fitting for a man of his years.

Reply

August 8, 2014 11:01 am

marion

It’s funny everyone mentions the new billy as being old.truth is he is younger then Victoria.He is 40,she is 41

Reply

August 8, 2014 4:38 pm

Linda A.

The one character I REALLY want to see leave town — PERMANENTLY — is IAN WARD! He is Satan personified! I can’t STAND him! He totally creeps me out! I usually don’t support Victor’s schemes, but ANYTHING he can do toward accomplishing that goal is just FINE with me! I heard a suggestion that they should kill off Ian and there’d be a “Who Killed Ian?” storyline. I know that’s SO cliched, but there’d be plenty of suspects! Sounds good to me! :^)

You’re right, Susan. New nuBilly doesn’t have chemistry with anyone — I’m still getting used to him myself — but Burgess Jenkins is a good actor, and he’s DEFINITELY easy on the eyes! ;^))

Someone other than Michelle Stafford as Phyllis? Yeah, that’s going to take a LOT of getting used to. But, as for Gina Tognoni as nuPhyllis, I didn’t watch her other soap work on a regular basis, but from what little of it I HAVE seen, I know she’s good, and if we give her even half a chance, I think Gina will make the part her own. We’ve had to get used to a nuPhyllis before, years ago. Remember Sandra Nelson, anyone? :^)

Reply

August 12, 2014 1:25 pm

jonboy

While I found her boring on OLTL I will give her a chance. My fear is that, like with many recasts, the actor attempts to make the character “their own” and suddenly the character you’ve known and loved is a virtual stranger. Presently I don’t know who this Billy is. But he’s not the Billy I’ve enjoyed for years (even with David Tom).

Reply

August 7, 2014 9:33 am

Leslie

I haven’t seen Gina’s acting before, but unlike other recasts, Gina sounds like she “gets” what Phyllis is about. She seems to value what this character’s past brings to her future. While I’m sure the character might change a bit over time as she continues in the role, this interview goes a long way toward making me feel excited and hopeful that this is going to be a perfect recast (and I agree that it’s time to rest the role of Billy). Good luck and welcome, Gina!

Reply

August 7, 2014 10:59 am

Susan

I agree with recasting Billy. David Tom would have been good if they had given him time to settle back into the role. Billy Miller is going to be the new Jason on GH. Michelle Stafford and Billy Miller to GH. JFP killer of soaps, is doing her job. T he only story that interest me now is Nick, Sharon and Mariah. I love Joshua Morrow. His smile lights up the screen. Sad to see what was once a great soap decline in ratings. While they boast they are #1 this is true. But, there are only 4 soaps left.

Reply

August 8, 2014 6:56 am

MBmomof3

This newnuBilly seems to me is actually oooooollllllllddddddddBilly. In that he’s been SORAS’d like 25 years! Its like having Peter Bergman playing the part of Billy, but without the good acting. Don’t like this version of Billy at all. Maybe now we should call him Old Bill. He and Victor can get together and tell Victoria how to run her life. They’ll finally have something in common.

(For the record, I really don’t blame the actor. I blame casting, writing and production for this debacle. I thought David Tom was warming back into the role and doing fine.)

Reply

August 8, 2014 10:58 am

Kathleen Karp

I hate David Thom as Billy! So glad they recast that role. He just didn’t work. The new ( old) Billy is o.k. but they could have done a better pick. Also don’t like Gina Tognoni as Phyllis but I’ll keep an open mind and we’ll see what happens.

Reply

August 8, 2014 3:53 pm

jonboy

I disagree about Burgess Jenkins. For a former prime-time actor I’m astounded that his acting skills are so poor.

Reply

August 9, 2014 4:50 am

louisa

LOVE her from OLTL. I don’t watch Y&R, but will check it out now.

Reply

August 7, 2014 11:24 am

B.J.

I love Gina, and will be delighted to see her again. GL was my favorite soap for years.

There’s no doubt she has the acting chops to portray Phyllis.

Reply

August 7, 2014 11:32 am

k/kay

Lovely Lady! I really wondered about her age but with the new hair cut and PB looks dam good for 60 she will probably make it work. She has a couple of things working for her that Maura West did not playing the Dianne character she is not having to play a love interest for Victor/EB because he is 30 years her senior and they will not be showing Daniel so she does not have to deal with that issue. Wish her the best I just hope they do not waste her talent and throw her with Dylan. Let’s be honest JFP loves to have SB in every storyline.

Reply

August 7, 2014 2:12 pm

Kathleen Karp

Gina Tognoni is not 60! Who are you talking about?

Reply

August 8, 2014 3:56 pm

k/kay

@Kathleen PB stands for Peter Bergman/Jack he just turned 61 I think. Sorry I confused you Gina is only 40 and I was concerned she was going to look to young next to Peter Bergman/Jack.

Reply

August 9, 2014 7:51 am

SR

I loved her on G&L. Looking forward to supporting her . I am a Phick fan and can’t wait to see what happens! go Gina.

Reply

August 7, 2014 3:50 pm

scotty m

she is amaaaazing! thrilled about this and pumped to see her on Y&R. Phyllis can’t wake up soon enough!

Reply

August 7, 2014 5:33 pm

Enola Barrett

I loved Gina when she played Dinah on GL…..and will enjoy seeing her as Phyliss,never really liked Michele Stafford that much anyway…so I am glad for the change.

Reply

August 7, 2014 5:35 pm

Aunt Libby

ME TOO!!!!

Reply

August 8, 2014 4:18 pm

MsErica

Me THREE! Never liked MS; loved Gina as Dinah. She’s gonna kill it!!!

Reply

August 9, 2014 7:42 am

A Baptiste

I remember Robin Stasser so annoying as Christina Karas on All My Children but she was totally transformed and hit the ground running as One Life’s Dorian. My instincts tell me that although Gina’s Kelly Kramer was ehh (sorry) she has “grown up good,” indeed and is gonna kick a… and take names on Y & R…this is her time!

Reply

August 8, 2014 12:16 am

Scott (ATWT Fan)

Her stint on Dinah on Guiding Light worked so well, I hope she channels Dinah during her portrayal.

Reply

August 8, 2014 9:30 am

Lawrence

I can’t wait for her to debut as Phyllis. She is an amazing actress. I loved her as Dinah on GL.

Reply

August 8, 2014 12:42 am

Sue

Did not care for MS, did not like her acting. Welcome Gina, nice to see the change.. That being said U better take it easy on Sharon or she will kick your ass!! LOL

Reply

August 8, 2014 3:02 am

juju

as if…

Reply

August 8, 2014 10:27 am

MBmomof3

I was a fan of MS as Phyllis. That said, she was really phoning it in for a long time and I welcome the change. I think Gina will be great. (I’m a Sharon fan too)

Reply

August 8, 2014 11:08 am

Scott (ATWT Fan)

I love this interview, and absolutely adore Gina. Her being cast as Phyllis on The Young and the Restless is going to be good; while she wasn’t my top choice of actress (Sarah Joy Brown was), I have a strong feeling she’s going to really connect with the audiences and her fellow cast mates. I hope the drive of Phyllis returns; during Michelle’s final years the fire of Phyllis kind of disappeared. I’m excited about her joining, from the video of her and Joshua and Hunter, there seems to be a great familiar connection there. Gina and Hunter even look like mother and daughter, so this casting could work out so well. I miss Dinah, though! She was great!

Reply

August 8, 2014 9:29 am

MBmomof3

Another great interview. Loved her as Kelly on OLTL. She can really generate great chemistry with both male and female cast members, so I don’t think fans will be disappointed. It’s always hard when you are in placed in the role as a recast of a classic soap role, such as Phyllis. I am really looking forward to having Phyllis back in G.C. and I think Gina T will be awesome.

Break a leg, Gina!

Reply

August 8, 2014 11:06 am

Barbara Cummings

I think Gina is a perfect fit to replace Michelle. I loved her on Guiding Light and she played a great role in Guiding LIght. Congats Gina wake up soon as we have missed you. You will be accepted as the Y&R fans don’t worry about that. I only watch CBS Soaps so get out of that coma and start some trouble Y&R needs it. Good Luck!

Reply

August 8, 2014 12:20 pm

Judie

I feel like Gina will fit in well. As for the Billy character…David Tom was much too young for the mature “Billy.” The current actor is better, but certainly hasn’t successfully “replaced” Billy Miller. Maybe “resting” the role is called for while they search for a more acceptable actor and at the same time perhaps have something happen to “Billy” that changes his personae before he comes back to Genoa City. If Josua Morrow ever leaves we are in deep trouble….same sort of charismatic actor as Billy Miller but more so.

Reply

August 8, 2014 1:13 pm

Robbie

So happy that she will be playing the new Phyllis. I remember when she was Dinah on GL. Ooh yes, they have the right one. It’s on now!!!! Welcome Gina!

Reply

August 8, 2014 1:18 pm

Jim McGlynn

Glad you are back have watched O.L.T.L. for over 20 years and Young and Restless longer. My mom and dad had watched it before me. Good Luck you will be put in the line of fire.

Reply

August 8, 2014 2:16 pm

Jacqueline

Being a 20 year fan of Y&R it’s always hard when someone leaves or is replaced . It’s takes time to think of them as That Person they’ve replaced. I’ve seen 3 Billy’s in this time and you just go along with the story line. It took me awhile for me to get to like the Phillis character but when I finally loved her, she went into a coma . Now another persons coming in. It’s like trying to replace Edith Bonker. That person was the character ….. And that’s how I feel about the people on Y&R. You could never replace Victor or Nicki, it just wouldn’t work. I’m sure we’ll adapt to this new woman replacing Michelle and appreciate her acting talents as much as we appreciated Michelle’s talents. Good luck Y&R.

Reply

August 8, 2014 3:38 pm

Aunt Libby

Gina really did do a great job on GL as Dinah. I totally feel she will ROCK this character on Y&R.
On another note, I had heard a rumor that Stitch and Kelly’s mom actually set their dad on fire and Stitch took the blame and confessed to protect their mom. And nobody not even Kelly knows, and that is why she is so mad that their mother took Stitch’s side and supported him, just a rumor though.

I loved Guiding Light and loved watching Gina on that show! She is one of my absolute favorite soap actresses! I am a die hard fan of Y & R too and have always love Michelle Stafford. I was sad that she left the show, but when I found out who they case new in the role, I was so happy! I knew Phyllis would be back, better than ever, and I was ecstatic that I would get to see Gina’s work again! Y & R hit a home run here and I call it early: Gina will win another daytime emmy!

Reply

August 8, 2014 5:58 pm

Delores S.

i am willing to give you a chance but RED left some mighty big shoes to fill. And Please make your hair the same shade of red. Thanks. and good luck.

Reply

August 8, 2014 6:14 pm

Teri

Yes her hair needs to be redder!

Teri

Reply

October 4, 2014 6:26 pm

Caroline

This new Billy is a horrible choice! He’s waaaay too old looking and he is a terrible actor. Nobody can sufficiently replace sunnyboy Billy Miller!

Reply

August 8, 2014 9:38 pm

Patrick

Blech!

What happened when you met Y&R legend Eric Braeden (Victor) for the first time?

GINA:

I met him the other day, and he is like an icon! And in that voice of his, he went, “It was so nice to meet you!” (Gina screams) I said back to him, “You are so cool!”

honestly

seriously

???

hold on… this is the truth

Victor needs to go

if so much at Y&R is new…. to hold on to Victor has no resonance…. no reason… dull

MTS’ Nikki…needs to celebrate and MOVE

if it’s with Meredith Baxter Burney… then so be it… a one upsmanship… womanhood… would hold

Reply

August 9, 2014 12:08 am

Patrick

that last picture… in the red dress

is fire : comeuppance : fearful… : lasting

go their

Reply

August 9, 2014 12:15 am

k/kay

Patrick so glad to see a post from you I was beginning to think something had happen to you. Concerning Eric Braeden maybe he will remember her name in 10 years. I believe he said that is how long it takes for him to recall your name.

Reply

August 9, 2014 12:55 pm

Angela Meredith

Great recast. Gina you’re perfect for this role. I loved Dinah! Good luck to you. As far as the new/ old Billy is concerned, people need to lighten up. Billy Miller moved on. So should Y&R. Yes he was special, but give this one a chance. So he’s stoic and not at all silly, but what’s going on in the story doesn’t call for comedy either. I wish you both Blessed long lived success.

Reply

August 9, 2014 6:30 am

Val

Welcome Gina! I have watched Y&R since the beginning and I think you will fill MS’s shoe’s nicely. I can’t wait to see where the story goes! I just heard that Michael Muhney wrapped up the movie he was filming a couple of days ago, so I have a feeling Phyllis coming out of the coma is going to affect Adam’s storyline as well. I think once Phyllis reveals that Sharon changed the paternity test results, Summer is not going to be able to handle the stress of her life being turned upside down yet again and will take off. Once Heather King is gone from the show, I think they can bring Michael Muhney back as Adam (even though MM’s mother denies this is so). I predict that Chelsea will haved moved on with Billy, Nick and Sharon will break up because of what Sharon did, and Adam will get back together with Sharon when Chelsea rebuffs him for faking his death and spying on her. Whatever happens, it’s going to be good. I know many fans will disagree with me, but I am actually enjoying the storylines on this show for the first time in years. I think JFP has a lot of surprises in store for us over the next year or so.

Reply

August 9, 2014 6:40 am

SherryLynn

I am so so excited to see Gina take on this role. I have never even seen her work before. But this interview was like looking at cookies and cakes through the window of a bakery. I can hardly wait for her to bring Phyllis’s character back to us.

Reply

August 9, 2014 6:53 am

Suzybel

Gina has big shoes to fill, but I think she’s up for it. I’m just glad Phyllis is finally waking up, I miss her. My only thought is, maybe her hair could be a bit more on the red side. Good luck!

Reply

August 9, 2014 9:02 am

Scott (ATWT Fan)

Phyllis’ hair wasn’t exactly red when she slipped into a coma, though. So they probably are keeping it a darker hue right now to keep something the same.

Reply

August 9, 2014 11:43 am

Analois

NO ONE can take Michelle Staffords place, just like no one can take Billy Millers place!!!!!! I’ve been watching for 40 years, I saw the first show! Some people you can’t replace and they are the ORIGINALS, Victor, Nicky, Catherine ( deceased), Paul, Lauren, Jill, Michael, Nicholas, and BILLY AND PHYLLIS.
You are making a big mistake!
If the cast doesn’t get better than this Billy, get Adam back, get the real Phyllis back and Billy Miller I’m afraid your #1 spot will fall!

Reply

August 9, 2014 10:18 am

Linda A.

I don’t think “Y&R” has to worry about losing its #1 status. I’m gradually warming up to Burgess Jenkins’s Billy, although I don’t think he’ll ever completely replace Billy Miller.

Another actress playing Phyllis? Yeah, I know it’s going to take some getting used to, but if any actress can do it, I think it’s G.T.

BTW, Jess Walton is NOT the original Jill, she’s a recast, but she IS the best. I remember when she first came into the role I took to her immediately, and I don’t think I’d ever done that with a recast before.

Reply

August 20, 2014 3:24 pm

Analois

This Jack is not the original Jack either but he’s been there so long now he cannot be replaced. ☺️
It will be very hard to replace Phyllis but I guess we’ll see.
This Billy just doesn’t fit the bill, no pun intended. Billy Miller had it all, looks, personality, charisma. This guy does not ,nor did David Tom even tho he use to be Billy! Billy Miller is just awesome.
MM wasn’t the original Adam either but did fit the part sooooo well! Hard to see someone else being Adam. Good looks was not what Adam was about, it’s his mannerisms that made him Adam. The jury is still out on this guy. We’ll see. ☺️
I love Y&R, just not happy with all these changes! Love Shemar coming back, the other Malcolm just was no Shemar!!!.,!

Reply

August 20, 2014 5:09 pm

Linda A.

Shemar Moore is coming back? Nice thought, but I doubt it. He’s still on “Criminal Minds.” Besides, why would he ever go back to daytime when he’s been in primetime for so long, now. That’d be like going back to dial-up when you’ve had broadband! :^)

Reply

August 22, 2014 7:54 am

Andrea

I’ve watched GL’s Gina Tognoni as “Dinah,” and she truly made the show! The 2 Daytime Emmies she has won are a small example of Gina’s depth of character! I watched GL from 1979-the very end, and Gina was def one of the most exciting actresses I’ve ever seen,& she was a recast back then as “Dinah,” and she cleaned the floor (so to speak) of the former actress who played Dina,so well that whenever “Dinah Marler,” is spoken of -it’s with Gina’s name! She will rock this role! To those that don’t know her yet-give her a chance, cuz she will make heads role! I’ve never been into the Y&R, but I will start watching 8/11, just to see Gina’s acting once again! Truly amazing! Go Gina T!

Reply

August 9, 2014 11:34 am

pat coggins

I hated to see Michelle go but if anyone can do great as a recast its Gina. She is

an awesome actress and certainly seems to know Phyllis. Hope everyone gives her a shot.As for new billy. David toms was better than him tooo old looking for part. They will never sucessfully replace billy or micheal(adam)…….

Reply

August 9, 2014 1:35 pm

Don

She could be a good fit as phyllis time will tell but for the billy recast they should have write him off since billy miller left the series. I am willing to give her a chance in playing phyllis as she can.

Reply

August 9, 2014 5:11 pm

Jared

I was also devastated when Michelle left, and I was disappointed that she signed on with a show that isn’t on Y&R’s level of excellence, for an invented role that was pushed on the GH audience. However, just like with Billy Miller, leaving was Michelle’s choice. Longtime viewers like me will remember that there was chaos in the late 80’s when Brenda Dickson was fired and Terry Lester left. Both Jess Walton and Peter Bergman took over the respective roles and they were quick hits with the audience and critics. Even on GH, Laura Wright was able to make lightning strike 3 times with Carly. SO recasts can be successful, even with the most iconic of roles. This happens when the decision makers understand the importance of the role when making casting decisions and when the new actor truly understands the core and motivations of the character. That said, Gina was the obvious choice under everyone’s nose, and Y&R did this one right. How can I say this without seeing the first airing of Gina as Phyllis? Because Gina is a proven professional actress with a track record of excellence. That is why I believe most of the audience is going to give her a chance (why they couldn’t do that for David Tom, I will never understand or forgive). Phyllis is arguably the most important character on daytime in the new century, and Michelle was the most recent reigning star of Y&R, even adorning every day’s opening credits as the lady in black. Y&R got this one right.

Reply

August 9, 2014 9:00 pm

Long Time Fan

I agree with everything you said. David Tom may look to young, but he was familiar and I enjoyed seeing him on screen. This guy is too old to be Billy. No question about that. People who are long time viewers know that Billy is supposed to be younger than Victoria. He was a mid-life birth to Jill and John. I have to use my FF button everytime this NuBilly is on screen. I cannot stand to look at him. He does not look the part. He may have some chemistry with MCE, but he has none with the Abbotts who are supposed to be his family. No offense to the actor, but he is not right fo the part period! This guy looks almost older than PB. I loved Gina T. on GL. She is the perfect choice for this role. She is beautiful talented and will bring the rain when it comes to Phyllis Newman!!! JMHO!

Reply

August 20, 2014 9:37 am

Marcie Tatum

I am so glad Phyllis is coming back she put the fire in the show an i think they need to offer the old Billy more money an let him come back he was amazing .

Reply

August 10, 2014 12:32 am

BlueHorn

Am looking forward to Gina T as Phyllis; I think she has what it takes to make the role her own… and the latest Billy is more enjoyable than David Tom (and I’m surprised that I feel that way, but David T was ‘colorless’ as Billy after Billy Miller ‘made’ Billy Abbott ‘his’ character); just sayin’!! Looking forward to lots of Phyllis intrigue… and what are they doing to make Neil a ‘wimp’ and marrying the chick who is HOT for Devon (Brytan)?? I’m sorry to see Devon falling in lust with her, she is so memorable that I can’t remember her characters name. I’m surprised that Cane cut off Lily at the knees regarding the chick… oh well, guess Neil’s comments shook him up!!! Lily is ticked of at his letting her down; better look out Cane!!

Reply

August 10, 2014 11:03 am

Blake

I know Gina is going to kill it as Phyllis. If you saw how she played Dinah on Guiding Light then you know she has the look and the chops to play Phyllis. Amazing casting choice there Y&R!

Reply

August 10, 2014 12:23 pm

Chaz

Have been a fan of Ms. Tognoni’s since she first played Kelly on OLTL. Thought she was good in that role but outstanding as Dinah on GL. I have no doubt she will portray Phyllis with the same intensity and talent she has brought to her previous roles. She might, just maybe, convince me to tune in to Y&R again. I only hope they write for her and not make a mess out of Phyllis like they have for everyone else.

I watched a few minutes of the show last week and was as unimpressed with it as I had been 9 months ago when I tuned out. The Neil/Devon/Hillary story is nothing special, Dylan throwing furniture around a snore, and Summer and her criminal husband…please.

Reply

August 11, 2014 2:17 pm

jaybird369

Chaz…VERY EXCELLENT POST!!!!! While I agree with everything you said, I would like to throw in my 2 cents and all. Like…

1. I (also) have been a fan of Gina Tognoni ever since her OLTL days. Furthermore, I am already ROOTING FOR GT to make the role of Phyllis her own. Y-A-Y GINA!!!!!
2. Chaz…RIGHT ON about that Devon/Hilary/Neil SNOOZE-FEST!!!!! Furthermore, that LOOSE CANNON Lily WORKS MY NERVES THE MOST!!!!! S-H-U-D-D-E-R!!!!!
3. Character-wise, The Incredible Hulk (to me) was WAY MORE BELIEVABLE AND DIMENSIONAL than that WALKING STIFF Dylan…LOL!!!!! Yep.
4. If Y&R is actually trying to redeem that Austin dude, then they should hook Austin up with someone else. And…preferably with a chick who is WAY MORE MATURE than that stupid and sniveling Summer. Summer=ANOTHER ONE THAT WORKS MY NERVES W-A-Y TOO MUCH!!!!! Stupid-ass chick.

Chaz…thanks for listening.

A-C-E-S!!!!!

Reply

August 13, 2014 11:34 pm

Timmm

With Y&R stumbling on Billy and Adam, I think they got this right. She and Michelle could be sisters and it sounds like Gina will incorporate the character and put her on mark on it.

Reply

August 12, 2014 9:47 am

Lynn Robbins

I love that you all chose Gina. I have missed her acting since her days with Guiding Light. I met her at King Dominion in Virginia quite a few years ago… I think she is the perfect pick for Phyllis. Can’t wait to have her wake up and act.

Reply

August 12, 2014 10:59 am

arterbell

Gina will do a very good job on young and reckless, I have watched her on guiding light and one life to live, she is wonderful.

Reply

August 13, 2014 11:31 am

dmr

I miss Guiding Light (before all of the cost-savings measures took place). I used to watch the show when on school vacation, when it was on at 10:00 a.m. EST. I was sad when the show ended. I watched the last week of the show and thought the writers did a good job at wrapping up the family arcs, storylines, and bringing back veteran actors. I’ve always liked Gina. I remember when she began on OLTL. The best of luck to her.

Reply

August 25, 2014 7:40 am

Tracey

Gina will do a great job and put her own magic on portraying Phyllis.

Reply

October 13, 2014 3:38 pm

fay johns

Gina is great as Phyllis. Whose coat was she wearing on today’s episode. I want it. Oct 22 2014 please respond. Thankyou

Reply

October 22, 2014 8:35 pm

Tams

Love the new Phyllis…I mean like, Michelle who????…For me its Gina all the way for Phyllis…Personally I would like to see a Phyllis/Sharon hookup…the animosity they have towards one another..lets just say that if one of them was a man…they woulda slpet together a long time ago….LOL!…Like Gina said Sharon Case is a beautiful woman and so is Gina!!..So really lets get that ball rolling…Nick and Jack can go sulk in a corner…who cares…

Reply

October 22, 2014 8:38 pm

sherrie

I had to watch for a few weeks to see how Gina is as the new Phyllis and she is great. Really connected with her . Keep up the good work. What took you so long Y&R to put her in that character?

Y&R’s Elizabeth Hendrickson and Greg Rikaart Talk On The Return of Chloe and Kevin

September 12, 2019

Fans of The Young and the Restless were overjoyed to learn a few months ago that Kevin and Chloe played to perfection by Greg Rikaart and Elizabeth Hendrickson were headed back to the CBS Daytime drama following the regime change at the top.

Rikaart had previously with the series for 14 years before he was taken off-contract, and then journeyed to Days of our Lives to take on the role of Leo, while Hendrickson went to General Hospital to take on the role of Margaux Dawson, only to eventually head back to Genoa City.

Michael Fairman sat down with the popular on-screen duo recently on the set of Crimson Lights at CBS Television City for a special conversation via The Michael Fairman Channel on You Tube.

When discussing what happened behind the scenes that led them back to Genoa City, Liz expressed: “It was definitely a surprise to get the call. I wouldn’t say it came out of nowhere because I saw Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea) was coming back and Michelle Stafford (Phyllis) was coming back, and it looked like they were getting the gang back together. I wasn’t sure if I was next on the list, but when I did get the call, I was really excited, and so I chimed in with my better half (Greg) and he was too, so then I was like, ‘Well, let’s do it.” Greg related: “I had a conversation with Josh Griffith (head writer, Y&R) and expressed that it was nice being back in the building. and a little bit later, I got a phone call inviting me back.”

Photo: JPI

If viewers have followed recent developments on Y&R, Chloe and Kevin kidnapped Billy for is own protection (Jason Thompson) to a cabin, after he tried to kill Adam. In the ensuing scenes, Kevin injects Billy with a syringe filled with a drug to knock him out. Rikaart shared, “Doesn’t it make sense, that if anyone had something on them to knock someone out it would be Kevin .. on the ready!?”

Liz said of Billy’s deteriorating mental health state and working with Jason Thompson (and Billy’s revenge against Adam): “Chloe also knows that Delia would not want her father to take revenge.” As far as working with Jason Thompson, Hendrickson shared: “Jason is really, really wonderful. I have known him personally outside of the soap world from mutual friends. And in getting to work with him, Jason is just great. He is a really solid guy, as well.

Photo: MFTV Inc

Later, Liz and Greg weigh-in on their favorite all-time scene together. Greg admitted, “The first one to come to mind is our New Year’s scene, because that is when we first got together. and the build-up to that was a really long time coming. I thought it was so beautifully played where Kevin had finally given up on the idea of them being together, and he is out with spray tan girl and it’s New Year’s Eve and all he is doing the entire time is complaining about Chloe. Meanwhile, Chloe is home in her pajamas eating ice cream with Esther – it was very much a throwback to a John Hughes 1980’s rom-com.”

On their return to Y&R, Greg concluded: “I think the fans are excited that we are back, and I think that fuels my excitement too, because when I was gone I really missed this place and knowing people missed having me here, I realized I wasn’t crazy …. this was something special.”

It was a pretty wonky summer for General Hospital’s Dr. Hamilton Finn (Michael Easton), especially concerning the women in his life. After proposing to Anna Devane (Finola Hughes) she exits to go deal with her twin sister, Alex, thus facilitating Hughes’ summer break from the series.

Meanwhile, another great love of Finn’s life, Hayden (Rebecca Budig) re-emerges on the canvas during Liz (Rebecca Herbst) and Franco’s (Roger Howarth) wedding reception, and is now clearly involved in some story with Jasper Jacks (Ingo Rademacher). But what about the unresolved feelings and story with Hayden and Finn? After all, she left him and Port Charles and had his child (who is apparently alive) but is not letting her ex know that little fact.

Meanwhile as a doctor, Finn has had to deal with numerous medical infectious disease crisis’, with the latest being what happened to Sasha (Sofia Matteson) at the hands of the evil Cassandra Pierce (Jessica Tuck), who Finn would love to put behind bars for all of her nefarious drug-related crimes and for what she previously perpetrated on him.

Michael Fairman TV recently caught up with one of our favorite gents in daytime, Michael Easton, to get his thoughts on the on-screen developments in Port Charles, what he hopes is ahead this fall, a look back at some of his favorite soap roles (from One Life’s John McBain to Port Charles’ Caleb Morley), why One Life to Live was such a gem of a soap and a special time for him and his enduring soap career, and much more. So, here’s what Michael shared in our irreverent entertaining, and candid chat.

Photo: ABC

Hayden has been back. But you and Rebecca Budig have not thus far shared many scenes together. Do you think we will eventually circle back to their story?

MICHAEL: First of all, it is amazing having Rebecca back. I’d like to say that I had forgotten how beautiful and talented she is, but I didn’t. She stays with you, and her performances resonate. So, coming back to work with her is like falling back into it. For selfish reasons, I am somewhat disappointed that I thought when Hayden came back; she would completely turn Finn’s life upside down. So, to be honest with you, I don’t know much more than what you are seeing is going on.

I don’t understand why the show is keeping that apart. That’s what people wanted to see when Hayden came back, because many fans loved them together.

MICHAEL: I’ve taken a hit anytime I’ve run into fans because I think (any fans that follow that couple), when they left, are a little disappointed in what they are seeing in that the girl who left is not the girl who has come back. I think that has been the difficult thing for Finn. It’s almost like she has reverted back to a character she was a few years prior to that. In terms of having his life upturned, it hasn’t been upturned because she has been rather cold to him. So, it probably isn’t the way I would have told the story, but maybe they have some great stuff up their sleeve. I think the stuff that we have had together has shown promise. Hopefully there will be more, because I enjoy working with her so much.

So, there’s a baby. Does Finn ever think the baby Hayden said died, could be alive?

MICHAEL: I don’t think he does. I think he (just from Finn’s nature) would believe that she would never to that to him. I imagine his thought would be, “What did I ever do to you? You would do this to me,” because he was clearly in love with her, and she broke his heart. I don’t think he ever sees that coming. I know it’s hard because the audience all knows that, and it’s hard to play the person who is not in the loop when everybody else knows the truth, but you have to play that. You have to play that you don’t watch the show. I think Finn has to come from that place that she would never do that, and I think that will probably take it to a place (if that is the case) that will just make the fall that much grander, but again it is incredible having Rebecca back.

Photo: ABV

Has Rebecca said anything to you like, “What’s going on? I’m barely talking to you on the show?” (Laughs)

MICHAEL: Yes. I don’t want to speak for her, but I think she probably thought it was going to be more the character that left who was coming back. I think we’ve all been a little surprised, but maybe the writers have some great surprises up their sleeves, and this will play out. It’s just different than I thought it would play out.

Finola Hughes had gone off on her summer vacation for awhile which put a pause in what’s next for the Anna and Finn romance, as well.

MICHAEL: Well, you work with me long enough, and then you need some time off, right? It’s like PTSD, right? You need a three-month treatment plan to make it back. So, I don’t blame her for taking some time off. (Laughs)

Finn proposed to Anna with this impromptu-at-her feet-moment at the Nurses’ Ball. Did you like the proposal?

MICHAEL: The only thing that I would have done differently is that I originally thought she said no, just because I love playing uncomfortable, embarrassing moments. I would have had a lot of fun with that because being embarrassed in front of groups of people is something that I would like to play. I do that quite often in my own life. (Laughs) I didn’t watch it back, but in the moment, it felt really nice. She’s lovely. Who wouldn’t propose to her? So, there wasn’t a great deal of difficulty in doing that.

Photo: ABC

Do you sense the on-screen magic between Finn and Anna?

MICHAEL: I hope we both bring each other out of our comfort zones a little bit. I think Finola embraces that, and I embrace that. I think we both sort of pull each other a little bit. When the writers write it that way, especially early on, there was a lot of great dialogue and banter, it was like a very adult-type of movie for a while, and I really enjoy that. It is like Sullivan’s Travels or something like that. That’s a really dated reference. Who else do you know that is going to pull out a reference to Preston Sturges movies? (Laughs) How about Moonlighting? Even that might be dated now, but it’s closer. (Laughs) I think that’s it. She’ll go with it. Sometimes just in the flow of it, stuff comes out, and nothing goes by Finola. There is no ad-lib or gesture that you can make where she won’t go with you on it. She’s such a pro, and she is so good at that.

Do you think Finn will finally help apprehend Cassandra? How is it when you get to work with Jessica Tuck?

MICHAEL: Yeah. I would imagine. I love Jessica. I think she is fantastic, and I always like when the “bad guy” doesn’t know they’re the bad guy. I know when I played Caleb on Port Charles; one of the things I liked about him was that he never thought he was the bad guy. I think that is always the right way to play a bad guy, and Jessica certainly doesn’t play it that way. She plays it like she is just really devious. She is lovely. I sort of look at it like a team, and anytime you lose good players, your team is not as good. So, anytime someone says something about someone coming back who is a really good actor, it’s great when they come back.

Photo: JPI

How does Finn feel now about his brother, Chase (Josh Swickard)? He just can’t seem to get himself to show his affection towards his younger brother.

MICHAEL: He does love him, and that’s right. That’s the conflict, but it’s hard to be mad at Josh because he is the sweetest kid. He looks at you with those big brown eyes, and you go, “Why am I being such a jerk to this guy? He’s just too nice, but it’s good. I think we’ve slowly developed a rapport, and it’s just one of those things that I think every so often, daytime gets right where you can almost tell something in real time. It wasn’t rushed. It’s taken a year, and they are sort of coming around to one another, but there are still a lot of secrets. That’s coming up.

Photo: ABC

Where would you rate Finn in the scope of your characters? I mean, for me, McBain will always be #1.

MICHAEL: Is McBain 1? (Laughs) You and Steve Burton (Jason, GH). I’ve never sat and ranked them. Obviously, I played McBain the longest, and it was probably the character who was the most like me I did ride-alongs with cops in New York City for like a month. So, I was able to ground him in some reality for myself, and I was able to stick to that. We had a great adviser on the show for over a year who was a former New York City detective, gold shield guy. Someone once asked why the police department was so good at One Life, and that was it. They really embraced it. We didn’t have people sneaking out of the jail-cell with a bobby pin picking the lock. (Laughs)

It was a bit grittier on One Life.

MICHAEL: I enjoyed that. McBain not saying “I love you” for 10 years, being on daytime and being able to do that – now that is quite the accomplishment!

Photo: JPI

I remember when McBain FINALLY told Natalie (Melissa Archer) “I love you.” I lost it, but then again, I am sucker for soapy goodness like that. It was a big moment.

MICHAEL: It was. Then, he had to kind of retract it and said, “I was drugged.”

Yeah right, he had that “What did I do?” moment.

MICHAEL: “What did I do?” That’s right. So, that was a challenge, and that was really interesting. Port Charles’ Caleb was probably the most fun to play because that was just an incredible amount of freedom. There was no grounding it in anything. It was the biggest sandbox I’d ever played in. If you wanted to walk over to the couch, you walked over to the couch. You did whatever you wanted to, and obviously, getting to work with the lovely Kelly Monaco (Ex-Livvie, Port Charles, now Sam, GH) every day… it was just nice. Caleb only had one intention. He was in love with this girl, and he just wanted to be with her, and anytime you get one specific need as an actor, it makes it so easy. You’ll stop at nothing to be with this girl, and that’s so fun to play.

Photo: ABC

Right, and Kelly Monaco and you have amazing chemistry when you have been paired romantically together in story.

MICHAEL: Yeah, I think those things exist in a special place, and they probably belong in that special place. Although, I thought it was an interesting dynamic for a period of time, it would have been interesting to see where that would have gone on GH with McBain, and Jason, and Sam, because there was something there that they could have built on very slowly. I don’t know what would have happened, but I think that dynamic was the only dynamic that could have worked for a period of time. I don’t think Fin would work, but that one dynamic would have been interesting when you have the cop, the outlaw, and the girl who comes between them.

Photo: ABC

One Life to Live recently would have celebrated its 51st anniversary if it was still on the air. Back in July, I posted these photos of major characters through the years. I received so many “likes” and so many comments on social media such as, “I miss it so much. Bring it back!” What can you say about those enduring One Life fans and being part of that one-of-a-kind show?

MICHAEL: They’re the most beautiful fans. All of the daytime fans are beautiful, but I think it was a really nice connection with the One Life to Live fans, and we got to know so many of them working in New York on the streets, you came out of the studio, and people were right there. So, you really got to know them. You got to engage with people. I love that show, and I miss it. Otherwise, I still stay in touch with a lot of them. I think that speaks to it. I have lifelong friends who I met on that show, which never happens. Usually, you walk out of a show on your last day, and you’ll never see anybody again. You’ll all say, “Yeah, let’s exchange numbers.” I walk out of there and I go, “Thank you, and I’ll never see you again.” I don’t even lie to people. Like, I know I’ll never see you again, and I never have except for that show, and I am still in touch with so many of those people. So, I think that spoke to how close we were.

Photo: JPI

Were you and Roger Howarth (Franco/Drew) always close on One Life, or are you closer now because you do all of the personal appearance events you do together?

MICHAEL: Well, Roger and I have known each other; it must be going on… 25-30 years now. So, it was pre-One Life. I think at some point we both had long hair, and both had done daytime, so we were pretty interchangeable. I think one time they called him about a part I did, and one time, they called me about a part when he left. I actually know Roger because I did a series called 413 Hope St., and Jesse Martin was the lead in it. It was a Damon Wayans series for Fox. So, I had known of Roger, but I really got to know him at a New Year’s Eve party in like 1995/96. Obviously, I’ve become really close to him now because we never did appearances or that sort of thing, but I think we have both sort of gotten over ourselves a little bit now. (Laughs)

Because you weren’t very visible before. That goes for both of you!

MICHAEL: No, and that’s by default. I don’t think we ever discussed it.

Photo: ABC

It wasn’t a conscious decision?

MICHAEL: No, I just thought (especially when I came back to daytime to do Caleb) it was just more interesting if people didn’t know a lot about me because the character was that. So, it took me a while to ease into it, and also, I just had to get over myself. I had a fear of engaging with large groups of people for a while. In a strange way, Roger and I have kind of gravitated to each other. I think we are both similar types. Between the two of us, we make up one real man, you know? Each of us is like half a man. (Laughs)

Together you can conquer.

MICHAEL: We are a good crutch for each other! He picks up my half, I pick up his. That’s the solution.

So what do you think GH viewers can look forward to coming up with Finn?

MICHAEL: I’m assuming at some point he is going to get his world turned upside down when he finds out about Hayden and the baby, and how he is going to react to that will probably be interesting. I hope that’s going to happen.

Photo: ABC

If he became an addict again, how would you feel about that?

MICHAEL: I think him struggling and getting over that would be interesting. I would hope that wouldn’t be his reaction, but I guess that always hangs over your head. Certainly, him falling apart would be interesting. I think your faith in the universe would be crushed in that moment. I don’t know how he would react. I’m just really curious to see how that would shake out and to play that. I think it would be a challenge. I think you’re always looking for some way to turn everything … and I invite that. I always think that sometimes in daytime we play the gimmick, but you should always play to the heart of the story. What’s going to make you feel something? If you feel something as the character, as the actor, I think the audience will feel something with you. I think it is maybe one of the things that we have gotten away from a little bit is that emotional attachment. When I watch shows that really move me, it’s still that emotional attachment between two people, and at the end of the day it should still be a love story … no matter what it is. I think that is the heart of what we should be doing. I think every poem should be a love poem of some sort. I know they have to weave the other stuff, the science fiction, and the memories, and the missing babies, and the twins, but at the heart of it, it should really be about two people finding themselves in love.

MICHAEL: Trevor St. John (Ex-Todd/Victor Lord Jr. OLTL) and I are always talking about doing a short film. Every time we drink too much beer, next thing you know, we are going to be doing a movie. We have many beers, and then we shoot a film. Then, we call our friends like Kamar de los Reyes (Ex-Antonio, OLTL), and Sherri Saum (Ex-Keri, OLTL), and Dan Gauthier (Ex-Kevin OLTL), and we go, “Now you guys, drink many beers, and you will join us on this film.”

See, now I get how movies are made!

So, are you hoping that GH tells more of the story between Finn and Hayden? Are you hoping that Anna and Finn make it to their “I do’s? What would you like to see happen to Finn? And finally, of all Michael’s soap roles which has been your favorite? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.

B&B’s Scott Clifton & Annika Noelle Chat On Liam and Hope’s Long and Winding Road To Their Reunion With Baby Beth

August 26, 2019

“The wait is over” were four of the happiest words for fans of CBS’ The Bold and the Beautiful when they learned, and then watched, after agonizing months, how beleaguered parents, Liam (Scott Clifton) and Hope (Annika Noelle) finally were reunited with the baby girl they believed had died at birth, when they were victims of a heinous baby switch plot. To make their journey all the more agonizing, Steffy (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) had ‘adopted’ baby Beth along the way and was also duped in the process.

In this story arc, several characters learned of the secret, but for one reason or the other chose to keep mum about it, thus not letting long-suffering Hope and Liam know the truth! Chief among them was now bad boy, Thomas (Matthew Atkinson), who is still legally-married to Hope and in wanting her all to himself, blackmailed others along the way to keep quiet, and even ran poor Emma (Nia Sioux) off the road because of what she might spill!

However, Liam, with a major assist from little Douglas, was able to figure out how he and Hope had been lied to and manipulated this whole time. To think, this string of events all started on that fateful night in Catalina when Hope delivered Beth into the corrupt hands of Dr. Buckingham (Wayne Brady), who needed cash to pay off a gambling debt.

Fast-forward to just a few weeks ago, and viewers witnessed the emotional reunion between Liam and Beth, and then Hope and Beth, in a sweeping epic soap opera tale that delivered in so many ways. But is there more trouble ahead? From the looks of it, and with Thomas going over a cliff, we would say so! For now, B&B set a ratings record for the show during the big reveal, while Scott Clifton and Annika Noelle delivered gut-wrenching performances that will be remembered for some time to come.

Michael Fairman TV chatted with Scott and Annika, who were at the epicenter of this exhausting, twisted, frustrating tale to get their thoughts on: playing out the key scenes, how they got through it month after month, what they think might happen next, and some behind- the-scenes insight on how several of those major moments came to life on-screen.

Photo: JPI

When you both went into play the scenes where Liam puts two and two together and is reunited with his daughter, and then Hope finding out that Beth was alive, did you feel added pressure that you had to get the performance, and the payoff just right, because the audience had been waiting so long for this?

SCOTT: Annika had a bigger job to do there than I did. I have been doing this long enough to know that to get in my head about it having to be just right, it’s not going to be, and so, I was pretty good about that. It turned out pretty well, but I think Annika had a lot of pressure on her as well.

ANNIKA: I think the payoff was even bigger with Scott, because Liam was the one who figured it out and had that revelation. It unfolds a little more slowly in regard to Hope finding out the news. When she initially finds out she is not with the baby. I was more nervous about the baby in the key scenes. They are not actors, and they’re teething right now, and they’ve been working so much lately, that sometimes by the end of it, they are kind of cranky. The main thing I was concerned about in my head was, “I hope the baby really likes me today, so we can have that magical moment.”

Photo: JPI

The Bold and the Beautiful is known for delivering the culmination of an emotional storyline on a large scale, but not before having plot point after plot point where none of the characters are quite figuring out what transpired, and thus the story drags out for a time, and thus can frustrate the audience. For you as actors where you like, “When will this end?” or “Please end this! Now!” (Laughs)

SCOTT: Oh, pretty early on. (Laughs) It takes about a week of crying before any actor is like, “Let’s move on,” and I think Annika was crying for – what was it? 7 months? 8 months?

ANNIKA: I think it might have been 8 total. (Laughs)

SCOTT: That is a sort of interesting kind of philosophical question you posed that I have been asking myself lately. We have gotten so much pain and grief from fans on the story – not personally at us. They understand and are very complimentary of our acting, but I get people coming up to me in grocery stores going, “When is this going to end? My God, I can’t take it. It’s just been months of this. It’s the same thing over and over again.” For a long time, we had no answer for them, and it was just, “Yeah, I know. I hear you, but it’s going to pay off. Trust me. Brad Bell (EP and head writer, B&B) knows what he is doing,” and he did know what he was doing, and he did pay it off. It makes me wonder if we hadn’t made our fans suffer right along with the character for 8 months, would the exact same payoff that we got had been as profound? I don’t know. I wonder if… it needed to be that long. It needed to drag, I think, for this moment, and here we are with the highest ratings we’ve had in forever!

Photo: JPI

Yes, and that is a fantastic news! In fact, looking at the ratings on the strength of the ‘Phoebe is Beth’ reveal, B&B finished #1 of all daytime shows (that includes soaps, talk and game shows) in the 25-49 womens demo for the week of August 5-9, which was a first in the 32-year history of the series. In addition, B&B finished #1 in the key womens 18-49 demo (ahead of all the other network soaps) for the weeks of July 29-August 2nd, and August 12-16th.A big “congrats” to everybody at B&B, and of course, the two of you, who were instrumental in playing out the story on-air. That’s pretty amazing.

ANNIKA: It is wonderful and amazing. When fans would ask me, “When will the truth come out?” I’d answer, “Trust me! Nobody wants that more than me.” They would tell me, “Oh, my God! I’m going crazy, and I’m just so depressed watching this happen,” and I’m like, “I’ve had to live it.” (Laughs) I agree with Scott, though. I do wonder, as well, if the reaction would have been as strong if it the reveal had been sooner.

I don’t think so, because I remember watching it, and I wrote about this. It was such a heart-tugging moment when Liam realizes that Phoebe is Beth, and they have that first moment together as biological father and daughter. The payoff was so big with the slow motion of the scene, accompanied by the music underscore. I think, you had to have the story drag out to get to that moment where it was so emotional and touching.

SCOTT: I think that is probably true.

Photo: JPI

When you saw the scripts that contained within them that the truth was going to come out … did you call each other up, and go, “OMG! I think this is finally coming to a conclusion!?”

SCOTT: It was kind of a slow burn. There wasn’t any particular announcement or memo to the cast or anything like that, and it is not like it all comes out in one script, either. At first, there were kind of whispers. There were kind of rumors like: “Sounds like Brad might be wrapping it up soon.”, “Really? You think Brad might be wrapping it up? Is this the light at the end of the tunnel?” “I don’t know. Maybe it is. Maybe, it isn’t.” Then at the wedding, when Liam overhears Flo and Thomas kind of arguing about it, to me, that was when I started to think, “This might actually be close to the end now.” It still could have easily not been the end, but that was a qualitative change in tone and pace for the story that kind of tipped me off, but even then, it was still another month before the actual truth came out. It just had to start somewhere.

Photo Credit: JPI

Annika, were you just done crying? (Laughs) I can’t recall such a long stretch for a character, or an actress, having to cry month after month, scene after scene! And to top it off, you have this epic moment on the rooftop where Hope and Liam connect, and in a way, celebrate that Beth is alive against all odds.

ANNIKA: The cinematography of that episode on the roof was beautiful, and I was so happy we got a drone up there to capture it, and the timing of when we got up to the roof … the sun was setting … and it was just a beautiful moment. To get all of those shots, Scott and I had to do that scene – I don’t even know how many times, and there was lots of crying there!

SCOTT: It was probably like twenty times that we had to do that wide shot with the drone, and we are used to doing one. So, it took a lot out of us, but it was so worth it!

Photo: JPI

It was worth it, because it was that kind of spectacular, sweeping moment that The Bold and the Beautiful executes so well when they get to a climactic point their storytelling. So, let’s talk about Matthew Atkinson who comes in and plays Thomas, and his character becomes unglued, and obsessed. What has it been like working with Matthew in this story, and how Thomas’ character flipped from when the character was previously on the canvas?

ANNIKA: I was saying that we needed it, because he was a catalyst for all of the actions to unfold and all of these domino pieces to start toppling. It’s been nice having a bad guy on the show again. I’m just kind of curious now about what is going to happen to Thomas. I’m also curious, and we will have to wait and see how this is going to unfold with Thomas, because Hope is still married to him, technically.

Scott, you had to have that fight scene with Matthew, as Liam was trying to tell Hope that Beth was alive! How was that to pull off?

SCOTT: That was really, really fun. I think Matthew and I both really enjoyed that. The show was really nice in giving us a lot of creative input in that. I went into it having this idea that I really, really didn’t want it to be glamorous. I really wanted it to be raw, and kind of dirty, and asymmetrical. I wanted them to be on the ground, and tired, and sluggish; I didn’t want them to be Kungfu fighters. I didn’t want it to look like a beautiful dance, like a lot of fight choreography does look. We are not martial artists. We are two guys, who don’t really know how to fight, just beating the shit out of each other, and that was my pitch. I got a little bit of pushback on that. They were like, “Well, it’s still a soap opera, Scott. It has to look kind of sexy, you know.” I was like, “Aw, man,” but Matthew and I got to kind of choreograph it along with our stunt doubles, who helped us and were amazing!

Photo: JPI

Scott, weren’t you glad that they didn’t make Liam a doofus and that he was the one that did put everything together and figure out the baby switch? Sometimes, the guys on soaps are made to be not-the-brightest-bulbs in order to facilitate story for the female characters.

SCOTT: Well, (laughs)… I think a person in real life would have figured that out sooner. I’m really glad Liam figured it out. There were a couple of episodes where Liam was doing detective work and shining flashlights on old documents, and making phone calls, and asking questions. All of that was really, really fun. There was a period before that happened where, just the way the pieces were falling together, when I thought, “What if Wyatt (Darin Brooks) figures it out? Wouldn’t that be cool? Oh, my God! Maybe Wyatt is going to figure it out.” I thought this because Wyatt and Thomas really hate each other. Wyatt stole Ivy from Thomas. So, I just thought that would have been kind of interesting. Kind of the analogue to that is Arya killing the Night King instead of Jon Snow in Game of Thrones. You’re like of like, “Woah, I didn’t think she’d be the one.” But I get it though, it had to be Liam.

ANNIKA: In a way though, it was Douglas (Henry Joseph Simiri), which I love that they did from the mouth of the baby.

SCOTT: Well one of our writers, Michael Minnis, said he really wanted it to be out of the mouth of the babes.

Photo: JPI

I got blasted on Twitter because I said, “Liam figured it out! He is the hero!” Fans pushed back and said, “No, he didn’t! It was Douglas who figured it out! You are wrong!” I get it. Douglas was key. I was just trying to publicly give props to Scott for his outstanding work in those scenes. (Laughs)

ANNIKA: Henry has been doing such a good job. I loved the scenes, Scott, with you and him together when Liam was figuring it out.

SCOTT: You know, I still haven’t watched those scenes. There is no self-consciousness or anything like that. That’s never been an issue for me. When we lost the baby, or when we thought we lost the baby in the delivery room, I never watched those scenes, and then I realized, I didn’t want to. I don’t know if this is that situation where I will just never go back and watch it. I don’t know what it is.

Courtesy: CBS

You should watch it, and I would certainly suggest that if you do submit yourself for the Daytime Emmys next year, that this is a great scene for you to choose for your reel.

SCOTT: Thank you!

ANNIKA: It’s hard. I did watch it, though. I remember watching the baby episode, I had to mentally prepare myself for it, and watching it, I was almost reliving it again. I was crying right along with the episode because I had forgotten. That episode came together beautifully as well. There was something cinematic about it. It almost felt like film, the way that they shot it. I have to give credit to Cindy Popp, who directed that episode. I get it. It’s the same thing, watching yourself. I’m my biggest critic. It’s a blessing and a curse. I learn from it, but at the same time, I can’t stand watching myself.

Photo: JPI

What’s interesting now is that we are seeing Hope taking control of the situation after learning of everyone’s part in the cover-up of baby Beth. Last week, she even bitch-slapped Flo (Katrina Bowden). Is Hope going to want payback and retribution on everyone who wronged her? What is she thinking at this point?

ANNIKA: I think the main thing was that she had to be so lost in her grief that she was making these decisions that were completely illogical and had to be in a place, where she felt so out of control in her life that this is now the moment where she is seizing that control back. Hope has the strength to do that, and she has the renewed confidence to make the choices she needs to make. So, it’s kind of like the phoenix rising from the ashes. I really do hope this is a true moment of growth for her and she isn’t as naïve anymore; that she isn’t as prone to being gas lighted in a way.

What can you say about working with your ‘Best Supporting Actresses’, who play baby Beth? They are pretty cute, and the timing and the facial expressions they make works in the scenes so well!

ANNIKA: I was saying that we have set baby goals. We have set child actor goals. What we have been getting, and the fact that we have captured them (because there are two of them, there is Madeline Valdez, and then, there is River Davidson) saying “Mama”, saying “Dada”, or clapping, and crawling over to my wedding dress, or pulling on my wedding dress, what we have gotten is so lucky for us. I know for me, the scene where I was watching Scott as Liam finding out for the first time it really hit home, because Scott was crying, and she says “Dada” when he comes into the room. Then, Scott is like bawling holding her, and she just reached up and touched his face at one point. I have to give the parents credit, and the babies, who don’t even know that they are acting.

SCOTT: Those kids are amazing. The one you see the most is Madeline. She was the one in the scene with me and in the scene where Hope is reunited with her as well, but we also have River, who is a little sweetheart too. She also does some very interesting things. They both just do something interesting in every single scene, and it’s an actor’s dream because it forces us to be present. You know, we have to react in real time to whatever it is they are doing, and we were just very, very lucky to find them.

Photo: JPI

What do you think all of these revelations means for the future of Liam and Hope, and Liam and Steffy?

SCOTT: I don’t know. I think we have got to be back-burnered at some point. People have got to be getting sick of us (laughs) because it’s been Hope and Liam, and baby Beth all the time. Brad knows that, so I’m guessing that there has got to be some break for Liam and Hope. After that, there is no way they are going to live happily ever after. We don’t want that. We want more drama. We want something to go wrong. I don’t know what it could be, but if I value my soap career, I want something else to go wrong for Liam.

Annika, how were those scenes to tape with Jacqueline MacInnes Wood where Hope has to tell Steffy that Phoebe is Beth … and that she is taking her biological child and leaving with her, knowing how that would affect Steffy?

ANNIKA: Getting to play scenes with Jacqui is always such fun. There is a beautiful give and take that happens, and in that moment, Hope is still very empathetic. She understands what it is like to lose a child, but at the same time, there is no way that she is walking out of there without her daughter. Also, it’s just a moment where you have to step back and go, “Aww,” and just watch Jacqui do some amazing work, and to let her have her moment to shine, because she did such a beautiful job. Those were pretty stressful days because the babies were in every single scene, which means we have a certain amount of time to get those takes. So, those were actually really difficult scene to shoot. We had a lot of pressure to get them done, and also, having to hold a baby who is now, I think almost 20 pounds. My arms just started going and I am thinking, “Wow! I need to go to the gym to work on my upper arm strength.” At one point, I literally was like, “I can’t hold this baby right now.” They wanted me holding her so that Steffy sees another woman holding “her” child. You’re about to see Steffy go on a bit of a vengeance with all of this soon. I hope they tie-up the loose ends before they move on with everyone’s story.

Photo: JPI

Hope is this long-suffering heroine, and last Friday, Thomas came to try to talk to her to explain why he did the things he did, and then he went over a cliff! Is there any happiness ahead for Hope, really?

ANNIKA: Hopefully, if she gets that annulment!

SCOTT: When Hope is standing over Dr. Buckingham’s (Wayne Brady) dead body, then she will find her happiness.

ANNIKA: If we could just bring Wayne Brady back just for a scene, please! (Laughs) We can only hope for Hope. (Laughs) I know Thomas certainly isn’t going to make it easy to get an annulment, and I hope that we solidify that Beth is legally Hope’s, and that the marriage is annulled and never happened. Maybe she and the baby can get a few moments of happiness and joy, but I’m sure that a wrench will be thrown in.

Photo: JPI

What would you want to say to the viewers who were put through the wringer with this storyline, and yet stayed glued to the story? What could you tease is yet to come?

SCOTT: We put our viewers through hell. We tortured them. We tortured them for 8 months, and the fact that the ratings are what they are shows that our viewers are the exact gluttons for punishment they we hoped they would be. (Laughs) They’ve stuck with us, and I hope they feel rewarded. They certainly tuned in for their reward, but the payoff is not over yet, and we hope to keep making it up to them.

Photo Credit: JPI

Annika, you get the final word. What would you like to say to the B&B audience?

ANNIKA: Thank you for joining on this emotional rollercoaster ride with me, and thank you for all of the support. I’ve gotten a lot of very positive feedback, and I think a few new fans from it along the way. I’m just very grateful that they stuck with us and the story, and echoing what Scott said, hopefully now there will be a lot of beautiful, fun, juicy, awesome moments for the fans to enjoy after the fallout. With a soap opera, the ride never stops. Now there is a corkscrew instead of a loop de loop.

SCOTT: That’s a good metaphor.

ANNIKA: We’ll see what happens with crazy Thomas, and Flo, and now that Sally is back in town, what is Wyatt going to do, etc, So there’s lots of fun stuff coming the audiences way, for sure.

So, what were your thoughts on the climatic episodes where Liam and Hope are finally reunited with their daughter, Beth? What did you think of the performances of Annika and Scott? What do you think will happen next with Thomas, and with Steffy? Can Hope, Liam and Beth have a respite from all the drama? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.